Emerald Coast Boat show tells 'what our beach lifestyle is about'

Friday

Back for its second year, the show features not only boats, but paddleboards, kayaks, electric bicycles, food trucks and more.

PANAMA CITY BEACH — The Emerald Coast Boat and Lifestyle show sets sail Friday for its second year.

"It’s a beautiful venue and a fun place to be outdoors,” co-organizer Scott Burt said. “It’s a great environment. It’s a fun outdoor event that tells a story about what our beach lifestyle is about.”

The second annual event is set to include boat displays from manufacturers and dealers like Gregg Orr Marine, Legendary Marine and others. Over $30 million of marine supplies will be on display, letting people get an up close look and feel of various boats.

Last year, the inaugural event went well, Burt said: Attendance was great, and a lot of boats were sold, leaving exhibitors and dealers pleased.

This year, the show will be even bigger.

“The boats are a lot bigger," he said. “The displays are bigger. We’ve expanded the show to where we have boats on stage. We have more lifestyle items that go with the beach lifestyle like electric bikes.”

The "lifestyle" portion of the name holds true, as the show is about more than boats, Burt said. Paddleboards, kayaks, electric bicycles, food trucks and more will also be available to those who have other interests.

Visitors can be immersed in all of what the outdoor lifestyle has to offer, said Catie Feeney, Visit Panama City Beach public relations manager.

“Emerald Coast Boat and Lifestyle Show is another great event to draw our visitors to the beach this spring," she said. "If you are in the market to learn more about the Panama City Beach or Emerald Coast lifestyle, this is an event you won’t want to miss.

“The best part about this event is it covers all aspects of the outdoor lifestyle, so visitors and locals are ready for a fun spring and summer ahead.”

Boating is huge in Bay County — and growing, Burt said, with marinas and boat dealers expanding as families become more active and familiar with boats.

Burt said it's because of that community support and interest that he and others are able to put on such a show.

The Emerald Coast Boat and Lifestyle Show is presented by Visit Panama City Beach, Pirates Cove Marina and Pier Park. The show is produced by Wheels Up Events.

Tickets can be purchased at the gates or online at www.gulfboatshow.com.

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